Date: Tue, 1 Aug 1995 09:21:38 -0500

From: Shana Walton swalton[AT SYMBOL GOES HERE]WHALE.ST.USM.EDU

Subject: Re: "...and them..."



"...and them..." is definitely friendly.





In Shana Walton's missive about asking about people's mamas, I was struck by

the use of the phrase "...and them..." In my native piedmont Virginia, "and

them" can be used to designate a less-than-beloved son/daughter-in-law, as in

"Phyllis and them are coming to dinner tonight. Guess I better get ready",

delivered with a frown that signifies a wish that Phyllis would leave "them"

(one person - the son-in-law) behind for once.



In my family this phrase is used only with affection.



In "how's your mama and them?" is the "and them" kindly meant?



B. C. Williams







--

Shana Walton

Mississippi Oral History Program

University of Southern Mississippi

swalton[AT SYMBOL GOES HERE]whale.st.usm.edu

(601) 266-5606